The dictionary defines thresholds in multiple ways. For purposes of this blog I have settled on the following: opening doors, crossing over and beginning anew. I believe that the act of opening, crossing, and beginning best captures what this blog hopes to accomplish in creating a forum for dialogue on some of the most pressing domestic and international issues related to the care, education and well-being of children and families.

Throughout this year, the U.S. has faced the challenge of unaccompanied children from Central America crossing its border, Middle East and Pacific Rim countries having to accommodate an influx of children and families fleeing civil war and African continent citizens forced to live in failed states. War, famine, displacement, sickness and instability have become the new “normal” throughout many places around the world.

It is the intent of this blog to sharpen the debate by encouraging and engaging a diversity of voices from both within and out of the mainstream. To stimulate thinking, the posts will take many different forms: original pieces of writing by the staff or guest editors; articles appearing in other media outlets; interviews; book reviews; reviews of research; audio recordings, and videos. In addition, a list of links and resources will be provided for those interested in a more in-depth follow-up.